University Campus Oldham teams up with The Open University

University Campus Oldham (UCO) has announced a new partnership with The Open University in order to enhance learning opportunities for local students. 

UCO is Oldham College's Higher Education provision, which has now been approved by The Open University (OU) to begin offering programmes that will lead to OU-validated awards from autumn this year.

The new partnership is the latest boost to UCO, which is showcasing at its first-ever Virtual Open Day from 3pm to 6pm today (Wednesday). 

The OU partnership starts with the launch of two new courses: a BA (Hons) Accounting and Financial Services, and a BA (Hons) Business Management, with pathways in Marketing and Human Resource Management. Enquiries and applications for both are now open.

University Campus Oldham already partners with UK universities and industry leaders to deliver a range of courses at both Foundation Degree and full Honours Degree level.

UCO's Silver rating for Teaching Excellence and Student Outcomes Framework (TEF) - introduced by the Government in England to recognise and encourage excellent teaching in universities and colleges - also puts it on a par with some of the best universities and HE providers in England.

Alun Francis, Principal and Chief Executive of Oldham College, said: “We’re extremely proud to announce this partnership between University Campus Oldham and The Open University.

“It’s fantastic for UCO to be partnering such a respected British institution which is globally recognised as a hallmark of quality and for transforming lives. The OU’s flexible education programmes have enabled millions of people to expand their potential by studying whenever and wherever works best for them – something that really fits with UCO’s ethos and approach.”

Dimitris Kontodimopoulos, Director, OU Validation Partnerships, said: “We are delighted to welcome University Campus Oldham as a validated partner of The Open University.”

“This partnership supports our mission, as it has the potential to drive our values of inclusiveness and widening access and participation further.”

UCO also has a new partnership with the Chartered Management Institute (CMI), enabling it to deliver professional courses in leadership and management suited to anyone looking to upskill or develop their career.

Mr Francis added: “Our first two new OU validated courses are designed to help lead graduates to careers in growth areas for Oldham and the Greater Manchester City Region – including accounting and professional services, finance, marketing and human resource management, plus many others.

“Our link-up with the CMI also enables us to deliver courses ideally suited to people looking to upskill, or even change their career.

“This new suite of business management and accounting courses at UCO applies the skills and knowledge of our expert tutors to supporting local people to get employment-focussed qualifications without having to leave Oldham. Students can also save money on significant costs like travel, accommodation and tuition fees, which makes UCO an attractive option in the light of the uncertainties caused by Coronavirus.

“Increasing numbers of learners are recognising how UCO can help to remove uncertainties and cut their costs by joining the thousands of students who now choose to get a degree right on their doorstep.”

At its town centre campus – located just yards from the Oldham Central Metrolink stop – UCO prides itself on providing a close-knit, safe, supportive and positive learning environment. Small group sizes offer a personalised learning experience delivered by highly-qualified lecturers with great links to industry and major local firms.

Mr Francis commented: “UCO staff have nurtured a unique learning environment and we have support available for all applicants who might be returning to education after a break, or are looking to retrain in a new area.”

“Our timetables are also family-friendly because we understand some students have carer responsibilities or need to maintain part-time employment whilst they are studying.

“Students also tell us that we excel in our support – whether that is delivered face-to-face or online – and we’re committed to delivering a course that supports each individual’s personal development. These are developed with employers to ensure they meet industry needs, and they include workplace experiences and real-world scenarios, plus guest lecturers, specialist competition briefs, attendances at conferences, visits and field trips, and portfolio reviews.”

UCO first opened in 2005 and has been part of the Oldham College family since 2012. 

To apply, head to the UCO website at www.uco.oldham.ac.uk or by emailing the HE Admissions team at info@uco.oldham.ac.uk or calling 0161 344 8800.